Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga
Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga is a 2020 American musical comedy film starring Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams as Lars Erickssong and Sigrit Ericksdóttir, two Icelandic musicians known as Fire Saga. They dream of representing Iceland in the Eurovision Song Contest. The film, directed by David Dobkin, is a loving, albeit exaggerated, tribute to the real-life spectacle that is Eurovision.
Lars, fueled by childhood trauma related to his father Erick (Pierce Brosnan) disowning his musical aspirations, is utterly obsessed with Eurovision. Sigrit, his longtime friend and musical partner, harbors a secret crush on Lars and supports his outlandish dreams. When a series of unfortunate events eliminates Iceland’s more established artists, Fire Saga unexpectedly gets the chance to compete. Their song, “Double Trouble,” is considered a national embarrassment.
The film captures the essence of Eurovision’s campy, over-the-top performances and the intense national pride associated with the competition. The elaborate costumes, catchy (and often ridiculous) songs, and dramatic staging are all lovingly spoofed. A key part of the film’s appeal is the diverse and talented cast of supporting characters. Dan Stevens shines as Alexander Lemtov, a flamboyant Russian contestant with a palpable attraction to Lars. He delivers a hilarious performance of “Lion of Love,” a quintessential Eurovision power ballad. Other Eurovision contestants, played by actual Eurovision veterans, also feature in a memorable sing-along scene.
While the film revels in Eurovision’s absurdity, it also explores themes of pursuing your dreams, overcoming self-doubt, and the importance of friendship and love. Lars and Sigrit’s relationship is central to the story. Lars’s self-absorption and desperate desire for his father’s approval often blind him to Sigrit’s feelings. Sigrit, on the other hand, is the grounding force in their partnership, providing unwavering support and belief in their potential.
The film’s soundtrack is a mix of original songs and established Eurovision hits. “Volcano Man,” Fire Saga’s initial song, is a catchy and humorous introduction to their eccentric style. However, it’s “Husavik (My Hometown)” that becomes the emotional core of the film. This poignant ballad, sung by Sigrit in the Eurovision final after Lars nearly sabotages their performance, is a heartfelt tribute to their hometown and their shared dreams. It’s a genuinely moving moment that underscores the film’s unexpectedly earnest core.
Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga is not a masterpiece of cinematic art, but it’s a fun, lighthearted, and surprisingly touching film that captures the spirit of Eurovision. It’s a celebration of music, friendship, and the courage to be yourself, even if that means dressing up as a giant hamster on stage in front of millions of people.